Final answer:
A spontaneous pneumothorax, or collapsed lung, occurs when air enters the intrapleural space of the pleural membrane, often due to underlying abnormalities in connective tissue, leading to impaired lung function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The clinical condition that develops when air is able to enter the potential space of the pleural membrane is known as a spontaneous pneumothorax, also referred to as a collapsed lung. This can occur due to various factors, including subtle abnormalities in connective tissue. The condition is marked by the presence of air in the intrapleural space, which can interfere with normal lung function. The lungs are each encased in a sac with layers of pleura: the visceral pleura that covers the lungs and the parietal pleura that lines the thoracic cavity. Normally, the intrapleural space between these layers contains a small amount of fluid that helps lubricate the movements of the lungs during respiration.
In a pneumothorax, air disrupts this space, which can lead to the lung collapsing because the negative pressure that holds the lungs open is compromised. In the case of a spontaneous pneumothorax, this collapsed lung could be a consequence of underlying issues such as connective tissue abnormalities. Symptoms typically involve chest pain and shortness of breath. Treatment for a pneumothorax is crucial and may involve the removal of air from the pleural space to allow the lung to re-expand.